How to pick the perfect modern fireplace


Log, gas or biofuel? Freestanding, floating or wall-mounted? Luke Rix-Standing explores the many elements of contemporary fireplaces. T


hey may be more associated with medieval banqueting halls, Hogwarts common rooms and,


once in a while, Santa Claus, but the traditional fireplace has been having a distinctly modern makeover of late. More than mere sources of heat, fireplaces provide a visual focus for a room with a mixture of light, colour and movement. Cosy has always been the classic fire feeling, but many contemporary flames boast bolder, more artistic designs that fit well with contemporary interiors. And whether


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you’re looking for an ultra-modern fireplace or just an updated twist on an old-fashioned one, there’s a diverse range of products and heating methods out there to indulge your fiery fancies. Here, we take a look at some of the key


points to consider... “MORE THAN MERE SOURCES


OF HEAT, FIREPLACES PROVIDE A VISUAL FOCUS FOR A ROOM”


TIP ONE Fuel options: Pros and cons All but a sliver of human history has been dominated by one kind of fuel: Wood. Wrought out of stone or brick, a classic wood fire is dreamy, romantic - and a right pain in the behind to clean and maintain. Soot clogs the lungs, ash scorches the brickwork, and a good portion of heat is lost up the chimney. Would-be lumberjacks aside, you’ll also have to buy your own logs and then go through the unenviable task of igniting them. Trow in a smattering


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